The orders have been placed as part of a new indefinite-delivery / indefinite-quantity contract awarded by the US Army.

The contract, with a five-year period of performance, includes at least $2bn in potential orders, Lockheed stated.

Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control Fire Control / Special Operations Forces Contractor Logistics Support Services vice-president Paul Lemmo said: “This contract enables us to respond rapidly to their emerging defence needs, including requirements for new M-TADS / PNVS systems and upgrades.”

The company will provide upgrade kits for the M‑TADS / PNVS modernised day sensor assembly (M-DSA) and modernised laser range finder designator to the US Army.

It will also deliver M-DSA upgrade kits to the UK Ministry of Defence for M-TADS / PNVS refurbishment as part of a remanufacture effort to upgrade D-model Apaches to E models.

Additionally, the Saudi Ministry of National Guard will receive M‑TADS / PNVS systems for new E-model Apaches.

“This contract enables us to respond rapidly to their emerging defence needs, including requirements for new M-TADS / PNVS systems and upgrades.”

The M-TADS / PNVS, referred to as the ‘eyes of the Apache’, has been designed to provide pilots with long-range, precision engagement and pilotage capabilities for safe flight during the day and night, as well as adverse weather missions.

The M-DSA is capable of increasing M-TADS / PNVS designation and ranging capabilities to fully accommodate current weapons and those planned for the future.

It provides a new laser pointer marker that improves coordination with ground troops, and an updated multi-mode laser with eye-safe range designation.

The upgraded sensor enables Apache pilots to see high-resolution, high-definition, near-infrared and colour imagery on cockpit displays, according to the company.